Have You Developed DePuy ASR Hip Metallosis?
If you are one of the more than 93,000 consumers who were implanted with a DePuy ASR hip implant between 2005, when it received FDA approval, and 2010, when it was recalled, perhaps you have already suffered symptoms of metallosis. Or, perhaps you are one of the implant recipients who has not suffered symptoms of metallosis, but you continually wonder whether you will in the future. Metallosis symptoms include inflammation, chronic pain in the hip, groin or thigh, deterioration or necrosis of bone and tissue, failure of the hip implant, or the necessity to undergo DePuy ASR hip revision surgery. Metallosis can cause your implant to loosen, or, in some cases, may cause the implant to make popping or squeaking noises.
What is the Likelihood Your DePuy ASR Will Fail?
If your DePuy ASR hip implant still seems like it is okay, you may wonder what the chances are that it will fail in the future. Revision surgery rates in general are higher with metal-on-metal implants, because they do have a tendency to fail sooner and cause more complications. The average failure rate is approximately one percent after one year and five percent after five years for most metal hip implants.
The DePuy ASR metal-on-metal hip implants, however, have a staggering 40 percent failure rate within the first five years. The signs of implant failure can occur gradually, or may come on suddenly. You may have significant swelling and trouble moving your joint. Of course if you experience any symptoms of metallosis, you should see your doctor immediately. You should also have regular tests to determine your levels of chromium and cobalt. If your levels are high—even absent overt symptoms—you should have further tests done.
Understanding the DePuy ASR Hip Revision Process
If your doctor has advised that you have DePuy ASR hip revision surgery due to high cobalt and chromium levels or if your DePuy ASR hip has failed, you may wonder just what this process entails. Out of the 460,000 hip replacements which occurred in 2010, 56,000 of these were revision surgeries. Revision surgeries often last much longer and are much more complex than the original surgery. The longer amount of time on the operating table leaves the patient at a much higher risk of infection, nerve damage and blood loss. The recovery time for revision surgery can be as long as twelve weeks, requiring most of those who have revision surgery to be off work for a significant length of time.
Are You Entitled to Take Part in the DePuy ASR Hip Settlements?
After you speak to your doctor regarding whether you should have your ASR hip revised, it can be particularly beneficial to speak to a DePuy ASR hip lawyer to determine whether you may be eligible to participate in the DePuy ASR hip settlements, or another form of DePuy ASR hip litigation. Your DePuy ASR hip lawyer can explain the current round of settlements for those who have already undergone revision, and can give you a clear idea of your options for the future.